CLEARWATER — When Southwest Airlines Flight 2909 from Philadelphia touched down 20 minutes early at Tampa International Airport this week, passengers were greeted by a large, green, furry creature.
The Phillie Phanatic was on the loose, welcoming sunshine-bound arrivals with a smile and a hug. Women in wheelchairs, toddlers in tow and businessmen in suits quickly realized that spring training has taken hold in the Bay area as 15 Major League Baseball teams set up shop across Florida to prepare for the 2016 season.
The Philadelphia Phillies, who train in Clearwater, were represented by their official mascot, who joined Clearwater Mayor George Cretekos in handing out hats and T-shirts to delighted passengers.